Two Ways This Could Go: An Experiential Learning Exercise to Highlight Emotional Intelligence Through Role-play

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a critical leadership capability, yet many undergraduate students struggle to apply it effectively in team-based learning environments. This experiential learning session introduces a role-play exercise in which participants analyze and enact both high- and low-EQ responses to emotionally charged, team-centered scenarios. Grounded in the BlueEQ™ framework and research on psychological safety and trust, the activity helps students examine how emotional awareness, regulation, and communication shape team dynamics and leadership credibility. Session participants will experience the exercise firsthand and discuss its implications for teaching emotional intelligence, collaboration, and team effectiveness in management and professional development classrooms.